Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 vs. Glycerin 20: Which One? (2022)

The Adrenaline and Glycerin are two flagship models in the Brooks Running series with similar names that are as confusing as Nimbus and Cumulus in the Asics series.

First of all, we must compare what is comparable. The Adrenaline GTS is a shoe for overpronation as evoked by the acronym in its name, which means Go-To-Support. Thus, it features the Guide Rails technology that prevents the foot from rolling (inward or outward) while running.

On the other end, the Adrenaline is available in two versions: GTS (for overpronation) and standard (neutral support). It seems logical to compare the first with the Adrenaline GTS. For the classic Adrenaline, a comparison with the Brooks Ghost seems more relevant.

Cushioning

This is the main difference. The Glycerin is more cushioned with a thick 34 mm heel stack height and a heel-to-toe drop of 10 mm. The sole of the Adrenaline GTS is thinner with 30 mm in the heel and a drop of 12 mm (so 18 mm under the forefoot compared to 24 mm for the Glycerin).

The underfoot feel is soft in both cases. However, the Glycerin has a major joker in its version 20: the new supercritical foam DNA Loft v3. This latest technology gives a nitrogen-infused midsole to give it a lighter, more bouncy structure. The result is responsive cushioning with a pretty amazing energy return for a trainer intended for daily training.

Unfortunately, the Adrenaline GTS 22 must make do with more basic technologies: BioMoGo DNA (which has been around for a decade) and DNA Loft (first generation). Thus, while offering a smooth ride, the bounce is not as impressive.

Foot lockdown

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 does a better job in this regard: its engineered mesh provides impeccable foot lockdown and comfort.

On the other hand, testers did not appreciate the engineered mesh of the Glycerin, which supports the foot in a somewhat hazardous manner. Fortunately, the Adrenaline is also available in a Stealthfit version (to further confuse those who are already struggling to keep up!). This one offers a thinner mesh with a more precise fit.

Finally, note that the classic Glycerin GTS is heavier than the Adrenaline GTS with 20 g/0.7 oz more, while the Stealthfit version is lighter (about 15 g/0.5 oz less).

Adrenaline or Glycerin: Which One to Choose?

Overall, the Brooks Glycerin 20 GTS Stealthfit is the better option due to its new DNA Loft v3 foam and lighter weight.

However, there’s a catch: the Stealthfit version isn’t the most common in stores. If you have to choose between the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 and the classic Glycerin GTS 20, then the former is a better choice because it’s lighter with better foot lockdown.

That’s it! Hopefully, this isn’t too confusing. This is just our humble 2 cents, but Brooks Running would benefit greatly from streamlining their series and discarding a few fringe versions.

Side-By-Side Comparison Table

9.3
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 Check Prices
8.6
Brooks Glycerin 20 Check Prices
Overview
Description The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 is the brand's flagship stability shoe that has proven itself over the years and continues to impress! The Brooks Glycerin 20 is an ideal choice for runners looking for a shoe with soft, comfortable cushioning.
Comfort
9.5
Responsiveness
9
Foot lockdown
9.5
Stability
9.5
Durability
9.5
Value
9
Design
8.5
Comfort
9
Responsiveness
9
Foot lockdown
8.5
Stability
9
Durability
9
Value
9
Design
8.5
Facts
TerrainRoadRoad
Support Overpronation (stability)Neutral
Heel stack height30 mm33 mm
Forefoot stack height18 mm24 mm
Heel-to-toe drop12 mm10 mm
Weight (men)289 g285 g
Weight (women) 253 g257 g
Features Vegan, Wide feet, Recycled materialsWide feet, Heavy runner
Athletes
Release year20222022
Technologies
Outsole Blown rubber, Omega Flex Grooves, Segmented Crash PadsRubber with Flex Grooves
Midsole BioMoGo DNA, DNA Loft, Guide Rails Holistic Support System DNA LOFT v3, Guide Rails (GTS version)
UpperEngineered MeshEngineered Air Mesh
Cushioning
Cushioning Soft Soft
ResponsivenessMedium Medium
Use
DistanceMid, 10K, Half marathon, Long, Marathon Mid, 10K, Half marathon, Long, Marathon
Speed Slow, Moderate Slow, Moderate
WorkoutsDaily running, Recovery Daily running
Kevin Le Gall

Kevin Le Gall

Kevin is the founder and editor of Runner's Lab. He started running in 2015 and completed his first marathon in Rotterdam in 2016. He's also worked for Under Armour from 2016 to 2018 and helped launch their running collection in Europe (in particular the HOVR shoes). In addition, Kevin is a 300-hour certified yoga teacher (Sivananda) and uses this experience to run more mindfully with a focus on well-being over performance.